Natural Attractions in Santo Domingo

Zoos, city parks, aquariums, and botanical gardens are on the list of natural attraction in a controlled environment that work best for most families who visit Santo Domingo. There is also a wilder side of things that include hiking trails, nature preserves, and even mysterious caves that add adventure to any vacation.

Nature Preserves and Hiking

Anthropological Reserve of Cuevas del Pomier

Do you want to spend part of your vacation outside? You may be happy to learn the area has a good selection of nature preserves in and nearby.

Anthropological Reserve of Cuevas del Pomier is a nature preserve situated in the vicinity of Santo Domingo, West of Santo Domingo. Visitors to the caves will able to explore several public sections, and will even be able to see some of the Taino art and artifacts that were left in the cave when the Taino left.

Vacationers wanting to locate a another great natural attraction will be interested in seeing sites like La Caleta Submarine Park. Created by scientists in order to see how marine life reacted to an artificial reef, this marine park is not not only a place for scientists to do their research, but a great dive site as well.

Caves

Even though most travelers come for the beautiful water and coastline, those aren't the only way to enjoy the natural wonders available. Santo Domingo and nearby areas some interesting choices, including two caves.

The table just below enables you to learn more details on caves.

Caves In and Around Santo Domingo

Name

Type

Location

Los Tres Ojos Caves

Cave

3.3 mi. East of Central Santo Domingo

Pomier Caves

Cave

4.1 mi. North-Northwest of Central San Cristobal

Parks and Botanical Gardens

Jardín Botánico Nacional

Guests can visit one of the many parks, as well as 2 botanical gardens in Santo Domingo.

To surround yourself with beautiful tropical vegetation, consider visiting Jardín Botánico Nacional, which is located in central Santo Domingo. Along with a collection of gardens like a countryside estate set up and a Japanese Garden, there is also an ecological museum that touches on the major ecosystems found in the Dominican Republic. An open air trolley is available to take guests on a 30 minute drive around the garden.

Another popular attraction in this category is Plaza De Espana. Plaza De Espana is a historic plaza that runs in front of Don Diego Columbus's former residence, as well as numerous shops and restaurants. The plaza is bordered by what were once the ramparts that walled the city in.

Zoos and Aquariums

Entrada Parque Zoologico Nacional

If the thought of spending part of a day with interesting animals tickles your fancy, you should visit Entrada Parque Zoologico Nacional. As the national zoo of the Dominican Republic, the zoo offers patrons fantastic sights of animals that you can only see up close at zoos or on a safari. Kids and adults alike should be able to stay entertained as they walk around the exhibits learning about the animals.

Another similar attraction is National Aquarium. The National Aquarium has a variety of exhibits that will have any kid or marine enthusiast happy, and their main underwater clear-tunnel is exciting to go through no matter who you are. As you walk through the tunnel, you will be surrounded by a large tank with sharks, fish, and other animals swimming around; giving you a unique view of the underwater world.

Glance through the following chart for more information about what's available.